Chapter 998

Alexander Hamilton's gaze lingered on Victor Laurent's face for a moment.

Those deep eyes held no trace of deception—only pure concern.

Though Evelyn Carter had left the hospital over two months ago, her instincts as a doctor were ingrained in her bones. She leaned forward slightly, her voice gentle yet professional: "That's actually a common misconception. Many couples trying to conceive ask the same question."

Her eyes drifted to the can of cola in Victor's hand. "As long as it doesn't come into direct contact with sperm, cola won't affect quality. However—" Her tone shifted. "The phosphorus and caffeine content can increase the risk of osteoporosis."

Victor's smile froze mid-lift.

With a defeated sigh, he set the can back on the coffee table. The aluminum clinked sharply against the glass surface.

"See?" Vivian Dempsey arched an eyebrow triumphantly. "You'll believe a doctor's word, won't you? I'm taking you back to the hospital later. No wandering off until that cast comes off."

Her tone brooked no argument.

Victor nodded dejectedly, but his spine straightened abruptly when he caught the dimmed look in Simon Evans' eyes.

The label of "friend" was both a shackle and an opportunity.

The lingering heat of summer clung stubbornly to the air. The group had taken refuge in the air-conditioned apartment when an abrupt silence fell over the living room.

Alexander chose that moment to speak. "I heard the Dempsey Group has been facing some difficulties lately?" His gaze settled on Vivian. "If you need help, just say the word."

The offer was delivered casually, yet carried the weight of a boulder. The influence of the Hamilton Group could easily crush the mountains looming over the Dempsey family.

"No need." Vivian refused without hesitation. "The Dempsey Group handles its own problems."

Evelyn shot Alexander a questioning look.

They'd agreed to assist discreetly.

Alexander returned a reassuring glance.

"Who dares give you trouble?" Victor suddenly slammed the table as he stood. "Once my leg heals, I'll teach them a lesson myself!"

The familiar line made Vivian burst into laughter. "Please, in your condition? If you really want to help, just collapse dramatically in front of them."

"Professional scam artist for twenty years!" Victor gestured theatrically. "I won Best Actor in drama club, you know!"

Laughter quickly filled the room.

Only Evelyn didn't join in.

Suddenly, she understood Alexander's intention.

Victor was indeed a good friend—but as a partner? Far too immature.

Simon waited for the laughter to fade before speaking. "Last week, a client asked if we could prevent typhoons from affecting stock prices." He spread his hands helplessly. "I had to explain we're not the weather bureau."

"Oh my god!" Vivian slapped her thigh excitedly. "I've had that too! They demanded direct shipping routes straight through uninhabited zones!"

The two quickly fell into animated conversation, jumping from eccentric clients to industry anecdotes.

Victor tried several times to interject but found himself utterly out of his depth. No matter how beautiful architectural designs were, they couldn't compete with the thrill of financial markets.

Watching the light fade from Victor's eyes, Alexander shook his head imperceptibly.

The opportunity had been given. Who could he blame for failing to seize it?

By the time dusk settled, Simon rose to leave. Vivian reluctantly arranged to meet him for dinner another day.

After seeing Simon out, Vivian grabbed Victor's arm. "Let's go, patient."

Victor mechanically picked up his crutches, following her toward the elevator like a marionette.

Evelyn held Alexander back. "We'll take the next one."

The elevator doors slid shut.

Supporting Evelyn, Alexander remarked casually, "This apartment was a good choice. Convenient location—ideal for someone with limited mobility."

"Vivian's always reliable." Evelyn sighed softly. "Except when it comes to matters of the heart."